A "Known Consignor document" primarily refers to the Security Declaration, a critical document in the air cargo supply chain that certifies the security status of air freight. This declaration is essential for demonstrating that goods destined for air transport have undergone the necessary security controls.
Understanding the Security Declaration
The Security Declaration plays a vital role in global aviation security. Its main purpose is to assure that air cargo meets stringent security standards from its origin point until it is loaded onto an aircraft. This process helps prevent unauthorized articles from entering the air freight system and ensures the safety of air travel.
Who Can Issue a Security Declaration?
The authority to issue a Security Declaration is strictly controlled, granted only to entities that comply with robust aviation security regulations. This ensures a secure and trustworthy chain of custody for air cargo.
Specifically, a Security Declaration can only be issued by one of two types of approved entities:
- A Known Consignor: This is an entity, such as an exporter or manufacturer, that has received official approval from the relevant aviation security authority. Being a Known Consignor allows them to apply their own security measures to their air cargo at their premises, certifying its security status themselves.
- A Regulated Air Cargo Agent (RACA): This refers to a freight forwarder or logistics provider that is officially approved and regulated. RACAs are authorized to handle, screen, and secure air cargo on behalf of other parties, issuing the Security Declaration after ensuring the cargo meets all security requirements.
Implications for Exporters
For businesses that regularly ship goods by air, understanding the process of obtaining a Security Declaration is crucial for efficient operations. Exporters generally have two main avenues to ensure their air cargo complies with security mandates:
- Becoming an Approved Known Consignor:
- Benefits: This option grants exporters direct control over the security of their cargo. By implementing their own approved security measures, they can secure their cargo at their facility, which can streamline the shipping process and potentially reduce costs associated with third-party screening. It offers greater operational flexibility and oversight.
- Considerations: This path requires an application and approval process by national security authorities, along with the implementation and maintenance of strict internal security protocols.
- Utilizing a Regulated Air Cargo Agent (RACA):
- Benefits: For exporters who are not (or choose not to become) Known Consignors, RACAs provide a convenient solution. The RACA takes responsibility for examining or screening the cargo to meet the required security standards before issuing the Security Declaration. This is often suitable for businesses with less frequent air freight shipments or those preferring to outsource security compliance.
- Considerations: Relying on a RACA may involve additional service fees and scheduling dependencies for the necessary security checks.
Comparative Overview for Exporters
| Option | Description | Key Benefits | Primary Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Approved Known Consignor | Secures own air cargo at their premises and issues the Security Declaration. | Enhanced control, potentially faster processing, reduced reliance on third-party screening. | Requires official approval, ongoing compliance, and internal security investment. |
| Using a RACA | A RACA performs the necessary security examination and issues the declaration. | Simpler for non-approved exporters, leverages RACA's expertise and certified facilities. | May incur additional costs for security services and reliance on RACA's operational schedule. |
By strategically choosing between becoming a Known Consignor or partnering with a Regulated Air Cargo Agent, exporters can efficiently manage their air cargo security and ensure smooth, compliant international shipments.
